ENSURING SAFETY BEYOND MOBILE SIGNALS:
Meeting Health and Safety Obligations for Lone Workers!

Understanding the Challenge

In today’s dynamic work environment, the concept of lone worker safety has evolved significantly from the days of a simple ‘in and out’ whiteboard. With the advent of mobile smart devices, trackers on vehicles, and dedicated lone worker communication tools, organisations have made commendable strides in enhancing the safety of their lone workers. However, there are still challenges to address, particularly when it comes to ensuring the safety of lone workers in areas with limited or no signal coverage.

Lone workers face unique risks, as they often find themselves in remote or unfamiliar locations. When these workers venture out to visit clients, there’s always a possibility of encountering situations that require immediate assistance, such as medical emergencies or workplace violence. In such cases, reliable communication is crucial.

Meeting Health and Safety Act Obligations

Under the Health and Safety at Work Act, organisations have a legal responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of their lone workers. This includes taking reasonable steps to address communication challenges in areas with poor or no signal coverage. So, what can organisations do to meet these obligations effectively?

• Alternative Communication Methods:
  It’s vital for organisations to provide alternative communication methods for lone workers in areas with signal issues. This may involve satellite phones, two-way radios, or even simple check-in procedures via text messages or apps that work offline. By diversifying communication tools, organisations can better ensure their employees’ safety.
• Satellite Phones:
  Organisations that frequently operate in remote or signal-deprived locations may find satellite phones to be an invaluable asset. These devices can provide a reliable means of communication where traditional mobile networks fail to reach. However, it’s important to note that the initial investment, as well as ongoing operating costs, can be relatively high compared to standard mobile phones.
• GPS and Location-Based Services:
  While GPS is an excellent tool for tracking lone workers’ locations, it can be rendered useless in signal-deprived areas. Organisations should consider using systems that store location data locally and sync it once a signal is available. This ensures that critical location information is not lost during signal gaps.
• Training and Protocols:
  Training for lone workers is paramount. They should be well-informed about how to handle situations when they are unable to establish communication. Protocols should be in place for escalating emergencies, which may involve a designated contact person, or an emergency response plan tailored to the specific circumstances of the lone worker’s task.
• Safety Equipment:
  Depending on the nature of the work, organisations may need to provide additional safety equipment such as personal alarms or panic buttons that can function independently of mobile signals. These devices can be a lifeline in emergencies.

While the evolution of technology has undoubtedly improved the safety of lone workers, there are still challenges to address, especially when it comes to areas with unreliable signal coverage. To meet their obligations under the Health and Safety Act, organisations must adopt a multi-faceted approach. This includes providing alternative communication methods, ensuring the resilience of location data, offering thorough training, and equipping lone workers with the tools they need to stay safe. By doing so, organisations can protect their employees and uphold their legal responsibilities.